Remote Principal Data Scientist - Healthcare Analytics

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Fully remote work environment

Comprehensive benefits includingHealth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Data Scientist for a fully remote role. You will lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced ML models on large healthcare datasets, translating insights into actionable strategies to improve health outcomes and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or Master’s in a quantitative field, 8+ years in data science with healthcare analytics, and strong Python/R proficiency along with TensorFlow/PyTorch.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in data science with healthcare analytics focus.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying ML models in production.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of ML models for healthcare applications.
• Analyze large healthcare datasets (EHR, claims, trials).
• Translate business questions into data science problems.
• Develop data cleaning, feature engineering, and model validation strategies.
• Collaborate with engineering to productionize models and ensure scalability.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

Spark

Education

PhD in Data Science

Master's in Statistics/CS/Math

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Spark MLlib

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

This is a fully remote position. Our client is a leading healthcare technology company dedicated to transforming patient care through data-driven insights. We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Data Scientist to join our advanced analytics team. In this remote role, you will lead complex projects focused on developing predictive models, uncovering trends, and optimizing healthcare operations using large, diverse datasets. You will collaborate closely with product managers, engineers, and domain experts to translate analytical findings into actionable strategies that improve health outcomes and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in statistical modeling, machine learning, programming, and has significant experience in the healthcare or life sciences sector. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on healthcare delivery from anywhere, shaping the future of patient care through cutting-edge data science. We are looking for a visionary leader with exceptional problem-solving skills and a passion for leveraging data to solve critical healthcare challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of sophisticated machine learning models for healthcare applications (e.g., patient risk stratification, disease prediction, treatment optimization).
• Analyze large and complex healthcare datasets, including electronic health records (EHR), claims data, and clinical trial data.
• Identify key business questions and translate them into data science problems.
• Develop and implement robust data cleaning, feature engineering, and model validation strategies.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to productionize models and ensure scalability and reliability.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Communicate complex findings and recommendations clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and healthcare analytics.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property through publications and presentations.
• Drive innovation in analytical approaches and methodologies within the organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in data science, with a significant focus on healthcare analytics or a related domain.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying machine learning models in a production environment.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R, and experience with relevant data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Spark MLlib).
• Experience working with large datasets and distributed computing frameworks (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Deep understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and hypothesis testing.
• Familiarity with healthcare data standards and regulations (e.g., HIPAA, FHIR).
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior team members.
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, significant performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• A generous stock option plan is also provided.
• We offer a flexible remote work environment with all necessary equipment and support.
• Professional development opportunities, including access to online courses, workshops, and conferences, are readily available.
• Our client cultivates a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• We provide ample paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• An employee assistance program is available for confidential support.